Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of roasted potatoes fills my kitchen, I’m transported to cozy family dinners where laughter mingled with the sizzle of Cheesy Taco Potatoes. This delightful dish combines the heartiness of seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and zesty toppings—all perfectly nestled in a crispy potato shell. Not only is this recipe a satisfying comfort food that will impress anyone at your table, but it’s also incredibly customizable: you can easily swap in black beans or lentils for a delicious vegetarian option. The best part? It’s gluten-free and ready in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Curious about how to whip up these comforting bites of joy? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Are Cheesy Taco Potatoes Irresistible? Comforting, these Cheesy Taco Potatoes encapsulate the essence of home-cooked goodness that warms hearts and fills tummies. Customizable, switch out ground beef for black beans or lentils to cater to different palates, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser. Quick and easy, ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tasty toppings like zesty salsa and creamy sour cream enhance every delicious bite, while the crispy potato shell adds a satisfying crunch. Whether enjoyed as a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering dish, this recipe is sure to delight! For even more options, check out my Cheesy Ranch Potatoes or Mexican Potatoes Spicy for a fun twist! Cheesy Taco Potatoes Ingredients • Let’s gather what you need! For the Potatoes Large Russet Potatoes – These act as the hearty base, ensuring a fluffy texture once baked. Olive Oil – Rubbing this on the potatoes guarantees a crispy, golden exterior. Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavor of the potatoes. For the Filling Ground Beef – Provides a rich, meaty flavor; substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option. Taco Seasoning – The secret to irresistible flavor; make your own for a personalized touch! Shredded Cheddar Cheese – This melts beautifully on top; feel free to use Monterey Jack or a dairy-free option. For the Toppings Sour Cream – Adds a cool, creamy contrast; Greek yogurt works as a healthier substitute. Chopped Green Onions – Offers a fresh, crisp bite for balance. Diced Tomatoes – Brings brightness and juiciness to your dish. Sliced Black Olives – Optional, for those who enjoy a salty kick. Chopped Cilantro – Perfect for a fresh herbal note; omit if you’re not a fan. These Cheesy Taco Potatoes are not only a star at the dinner table, but also a fantastic canvas for your favorite toppings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Taco Potatoes Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This crucial step ensures a hot environment for baking your Cheesy Taco Potatoes, helping them develop a lovely crispy skin while retaining their fluffy interior. Take a moment to gather your ingredients and equipment, preparing for the deliciousness to come. Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes Scrub the large Russet potatoes under running water, removing any dirt. Using a fork, pierce each potato several times, then rub them generously with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, making sure to coat them evenly for enhanced flavor. These steps will give your potatoes that perfect crispy exterior after baking. Step 3: Bake the Potatoes Carefully place the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet and insert them into your preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. At this point, you should start to smell that enticing aroma of baked potatoes filling your kitchen, signaling that they are almost ready. Step 4: Cook the Beef While the potatoes bake, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned, then sprinkle in your taco seasoning. Add a splash of water and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until fully combined. Step 5: Assemble the Potatoes Once the potatoes are perfectly baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Carefully cut each potato in half lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork. Spoon the seasoned beef mixture generously into each potato half, creating a cozy nest for all that flavor. Step 6: Melt the Cheese Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef-filled potatoes. Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, looking for that beautiful melted and bubbly cheese indicating that they are ready to come out. Step 7: Garnish and Serve Gently remove your Cheesy Taco Potatoes from the oven. Top each potato with dollops of sour cream, fresh diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, olives, and chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor and texture. Serve these comforting bites hot and watch everyone at your table dig in with delight! What to Serve with Cheesy Taco Potatoes Creating a memorable meal is all about pairing delightful flavors and textures together. Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy potatoes, balancing the meal perfectly. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant mix of sweet corn, cheese, and spices that complements the taco flavors seamlessly. This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser! Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips enhances the Mexican flair while offering a contrasting texture. Zesty Black Bean Salad: Packed with protein and flavor, this salad brings a fresh twist to your plate—perfect for those who love the flavors of a taco night. Spicy Tomato Salsa: A lively salsa adds color and a burst of freshness, perfectly matching the heartiness of Cheesy Taco Potatoes. Crisp Garden Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette is a light and healthy option to balance the rich flavors. Pineapple Mojito: This refreshing drink combines the sweetness of pineapple with minty freshness, making it the ideal beverage to sip alongside your cheesy baked goodness. Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Delightful for dessert, these sweet pastries provide a satisfying end to your meal, creating a deliciously sweet note after savory bites. Expert Tips for Cheesy Taco Potatoes Perfect Potato Choice: Always opt for large Russet potatoes for the best texture and flavor. Their fluffy interior is perfect for this recipe. Season Generously: Don’t skimp on oil, salt, and pepper when preparing the potatoes. This enhances the overall flavor of your Cheesy Taco Potatoes. Watch the Cheese: Keep an eye on the filled potatoes while they melt in the oven. Remove them when the cheese is bubbly and golden, avoiding over-browning. Avoid Overcrowding: If baking multiple potatoes, space them out on the baking sheet. This allows for even cooking and crispness without steaming. Cool Before Handling: Let the potatoes sit for a few minutes after baking to avoid burns and make slicing easier. Customization is Key: Feel free to swap ground beef for black beans or lentils to cater to your crowd’s preferences. Enjoy delicious Cheesy Taco Potatoes, no matter the diet! How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Taco Potatoes Fridge: Store any leftover Cheesy Taco Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the toppings separate for the best texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled but unbaked Cheesy Taco Potatoes wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can last for up to 2 months. Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melty and delicious. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Cheesy Taco Potatoes out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Cheesy Taco Potatoes Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with your Cheesy Taco Potatoes and make them truly your own! Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for black beans or lentils for a wholesome, meat-free meal. This twist adds protein and a delightful texture! Dairy-Free Cheese: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re looking for a vegan option. It will melt beautifully while keeping the dish plant-based. Greek Yogurt: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy and healthier twist that still packs a creamy punch. Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving for an extra zing. Herbal Flavor: Try adding fresh herbs such as parsley or chives instead of cilantro for a refreshing taste variation. Flavorful Add-Ins: Toss in some corn or roasted red peppers when you prepare the beef mixture to enhance flavor and get even more colorful! Crispy Texture: Top with crushed tortilla chips before baking for an added crunch. This will create a delightful contrast when you dig in! Remember, you can customize your Cheesy Taco Potatoes just the way you like. For more delicious ideas, check out my Garlic Baby Potatoes and other temptations like Mexican Potatoes Customizable for a tasty twist! Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Taco Potatoes are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling of seasoned ground beef and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can bake the potatoes and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before serving; just make sure to let them cool completely to maintain their texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the potatoes, fill them with the beef mixture, top with cheese, and return them to the oven until the cheese is deliciously melted. This method ensures that your Cheesy Taco Potatoes are just as flavorful and enjoyable as if they were freshly made! Cheesy Taco Potatoes Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right potatoes for making Cheesy Taco Potatoes? Absolutely! Look for large Russet potatoes, as they have a high starch content that results in a fluffy interior when baked. Ensure they are firm and free from dark spots or blemishes; the skin should be smooth and clean for the best results. What is the best way to store leftover Cheesy Taco Potatoes? Leftover Cheesy Taco Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain their texture, keep the toppings separate until you’re ready to eat them again, as this helps prevent sogginess. Can I freeze Cheesy Taco Potatoes for later? Yes, you can freeze assembled but unbaked Cheesy Taco Potatoes! Wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. How can I troubleshoot if my Cheesy Taco Potatoes are not as crispy as I’d like? Very! If your potatoes come out less crispy, check your cooking technique. Ensure that you have used enough olive oil while prepping the potatoes and avoid overcrowding them on the baking sheet. Baking them at the right temperature (400°F) and for the recommended duration is key to achieving that perfect crunchy texture. Are there any dietary considerations for Cheesy Taco Potatoes? Absolutely! This recipe can easily cater to various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free taco seasoning and pair it with gluten-free toppings. If allergies to dairy exist, substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative and the sour cream with Greek yogurt. As for a vegetarian option, simply swap the ground beef for black beans or lentils! How long can Cheesy Taco Potatoes be kept at room temperature? It’s important to enjoy Cheesy Taco Potatoes fresh! Avoid leaving them out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to keep them safe to eat. If you’re serving them at a gathering, keep them hot in the oven or cover them tightly to maintain warmth until everyone is ready to dig in. Cheesy Taco Potatoes: Comfort Food You Can't Resist Cheesy Taco Potatoes are customizable, gluten-free, and ready in under an hour, making them a perfect comfort food for any dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 potatoesCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Potatoes4 large Russet Potatoes These act as the hearty base, ensuring a fluffy texture once baked.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Rubbing this on the potatoes guarantees a crispy, golden exterior.1 teaspoon Salt Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavor of the potatoes.1 teaspoon Pepper Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavor of the potatoes.For the Filling1 pound Ground Beef Provides a rich, meaty flavor; substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.2 tablespoons Taco Seasoning The secret to irresistible flavor.1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese This melts beautifully on top; feel free to use Monterey Jack or a dairy-free option.For the Toppings1 cup Sour Cream Adds a cool, creamy contrast; Greek yogurt works as a healthier substitute.1/2 cup Chopped Green Onions Offers a fresh, crisp bite for balance.1 cup Diced Tomatoes Brings brightness and juiciness to your dish.1/2 cup Sliced Black Olives Optional, for those who enjoy a salty kick.1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro Perfect for a fresh herbal note; omit if you're not a fan. Equipment OvenBaking sheetSkilletForkSpatula Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Scrub the large Russet potatoes under running water, then pierce each potato several times with a fork and rub them with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.Bake the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet for 45 to 60 minutes, or until tender.While the potatoes bake, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet and cook the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes. Add the taco seasoning and splash of water, then simmer for an additional 5 minutes.Once baked, cut each potato in half lengthwise and fluff the insides. Spoon the beef mixture into each potato half.Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef-filled potatoes and return to the oven for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.Remove from the oven and top with sour cream, diced tomatoes, green onions, olives, and cilantro. Serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1potatoCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg NotesFeel free to swap ground beef for black beans or lentils for a vegetarian option. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
